NWU-Pukke continued their campaign as reigning champions after disarming the University of Johannesburg with a 37–77 win this afternoon at the UJ Imbizo Hall, Soweto.
UJ came out strong, scoring two goals within the first few minutes of the fixture but saw their efforts reduced as Pukke started their dominance over the Johannesburg side with an eight-point lead within the first 8 minutes of the game. UJ tried to come back into the game but had a hard time holding onto the ball as Pukke controlled possession with their fast pace and long crosses, concluding the first quarter’s score at 5-19.
As the second quarter began, Pukke continued their supremacy over UJ as they displayed their premeditated structure over the Auckland Park side, leading by 20 points in the half time break. With significant squad changes, UJ came back with a stronger defence as they fought back in their attempt to decrease the widening gap. However, The North West showed their intention to win at all costs, hitting the 50-point mark by the ninth minute of the third quarter.
Although UJ showed promise in reducing the deficit, Pukke spear-headed the final quarter, as they held onto their 40-point tip. Unfortunately, UJ saw their labours go unanswered as Pukke came out as the stronger victor, climbing the log with nine points, while the Johannesburg side remains at a stagnant position with one point.
FNB Player of the Match: Mandy Hermanus (NWU-Pukke)
Teams:
UJ Team: Deancke Rohde, Kim-Roche Holmes, Ntombizodwa Yengwa, Nhlamulo Mhlari, Angelique Molefe, Jodie Brown, Christell Botha, Courtney Davis, Karabo Mokoena, Nompumelelo Mbonambi, Ntokozo Ramaremisa, Lebogang Malahlela
Pukke Team: Sigrid Burger (Sigi), Renske Stoltz, Kifiloe Tsotetsi (Fifi), Marna Claassens, Romé Dreyer, Mandolien Hermanus (Mandy), Chanté Bester, Jomarie Myburgh, Simone Rabie, Zandre Kruger, Jeanté Strydom, Monique Reyneke
By Liziwe Mbha
